Eleven greats of the sailing world have been named 2025 inductees into the National Sailing Hall of Fame. The group includes racing champions, yacht designers, coaches, and educators nominated by the sailing community.
“The Sailing Hall of Fame Class of 2025 includes an inspiring group of sailors and designers who have achieved excellence at the highest levels of the sport,” said fellow Hall of Famer and Co-President Gary Jobson. “Each Inductee has contributed lasting innovations and remarkable achievements. They have all helped educate sailors on how to sail fast, race with integrity and lift the game of aspiring young sailor athletes.”
This year’s inductees are:
David Kent Dellenbaugh (b. 1953) a skilled sailor and tactician, is renowned for helping defend the 1992 America’s Cup with America3.
Gregory Vance Fisher (b. 1954) is a 25-time champion across seven sailing classes, recognized for his versatility, dedication, and work as a coach, educator, and advocate for accessible sailing.
Sally Elizabeth Helme (1953-2024) became the first female publisher of Cruising World and Sailing World, leaving a powerful legacy through her leadership and advocacy for equality in the sport and industry.
Hal Herman Haenel (b. 1966) is a gold and silver Olympic medalist in the International Star Class and led the US Sailing Team for the 2000 Olympics.
Charles “Chuck” Gigeon Hawley (b. 1955) is a skilled sailor with over 40,000 miles at sea, known for his contributions to maritime safety, education, and leadership in Safety-at-Sea seminars.
James Henry “Sham” Hunt (b. 1936) is an Olympic gold medalist and World Champion who led O’Day Yachts in producing over 50,000 boats. He and his father, C. Raymond Hunt, are the second father-son pair inducted to the National Sailing Hall of Fame.
Bruce P. King (b. 1939), known for designs like Ericson Yachts and White Hawk, transformed modern yacht design with over 40 creations.
Alfred Edward “Bill” Luders, Jr (1909-1999), a pioneering yacht designer, revolutionized hull construction with epoxy resin and anti-fouling paints, earning acclaim for boats like Weatherly and American Eagle in the America’s Cup.
Kenneth Wheaton Read II (b. 1961) is a two-time Rolex Yachtsman of the Year who has won over 50 titles, helmed three America’s Cup campaigns, and now leads at North Sails while racing worldwide.
John Steven Reichel (b. 1955), co-founder of Reichel/Pugh, has shaped modern yacht design with groundbreaking creations like the Melges 24.
Carl Sherman Schumacher (1949-2002) was a gifted naval architect who designed 57 sailboats, including the Express and Alerion Express lines.
“If there’s one word that truly captures the essence of all our candidates, it’s passion. A passion for excellence, both on and off the water, and a commitment to enriching our community,” said Spike Lobdell, Selection Committee Chair. “These inductees embody the spirit of sailing as more than just a sport. The skills they demonstrate in their pursuit of sailing extend beyond the water, offering life lessons that will inspire and guide future generations.”
The induction ceremony and celebration will take place on September 25, 2025, at the New York Yacht Club Harbour Court in Newport. Tickets and sponsorship are available for purchase through the Sailing Museum’s website thesailingmuseum.com
